Carbon Chamber CEO announces retirement

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After 10 years of service, Kathy Henderson, executive director of the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation has announced her retirement.  

In her role with the chamber, Henderson has counselled numerous business start-ups and new entrepreneurs and has helped existing businesses to grow in the county. She has stayed true to her mission to create thoughtful opportunities for economic development while preserving the natural beauty of Carbon County, the organization said in a release.   

 Henderson began with the CCEDC in 2014 as the director of economic development, after previously working as the executive director for the Carbon County Association of Realtors. “I came prepared to the interview with a copy of the County’s Comprehensive Plan and showcased my vision for how Economic Development as related to the plan they had established,” Henderson said.  

 She had many accomplishments during her tenure. Working with the Weatherly Library, she was instrumental in facilitating the sale of a vacant property that was later transformed into a library space.  

“To be able to reutilize an old building for something productive meant a lot,” said Henderson. 

 Similarly, in 2015, Henderson partnered with a local realtor to assist Sharps Compliance of Houston, Texas, in putting down roots in Nesquehoning, creating jobs and expanding their business in this region.  

Certified by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to underwrite Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loans, Henderson handled countless loans for both the CCEDC and Carbon County Industrial Development Authority that have given opportunities for growth and expansion to businesses throughout the region.   

Most recently, Henderson served the CCEDC as executive director, overseeing both the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development aspects of the organization.  

“Kathy has been a tremendous asset to the CCEDC,” said Pat Reilly, President of the CCEDC Board and President and CEO of Mauch Chunk Trust Company. “We appreciate everything she has accomplished and wish her a happy retirement.”  

 Henderson’s retirement will bring new faces to the CCEDC, the organization said. 

 Kylie Adams-Weiss has been appointed as senior vice president of the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation effective immediately, coming to the role after five years working with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, of which the CCEDC is a partner.